In 2018, Algoma Manor partnered with Sault College to address staffing challenges by creating a Living Classroom. Six years later, Jenny Daoust, Director of Administrative Services at Algoma Manor, and Lori Crosson, Dean of Continuing Education, E-Learning, Culinary and Academic Upgrading at Sault College, are proud of their impressive PSW retention rate and strong partnership.
Early Challenges with Staff Engagement
Initially, staff engagement at Algoma Manor was a hurdle. The integration of students into the daily operations of the LTC home was met with resistance, as change often brings growing pains. However, as former students transitioned into preceptor roles, the culture began to shift. Staff recognized the benefits of having PSW students on-site, including the added support they provided in resident care.
Their advice? Prioritize staff engagement to help with the cultural shift of having a Living Classroom at the home.
Overcoming Partnership Hurdles
Establishing and maintaining a strong partnership requires effort and mutual understanding. Lori explained that one key to their success was having a small, dedicated team that worked well together and quickly addressed any issues. Additionally, by taking the time to learn about each other’s processes, such as Algoma Manor learning about the Ontario college application process, they were able to strengthen their collaboration.
Tackling Recruitment and Accessibility Issues
A significant challenge for Algoma Manor was student recruitment due largely in part to its rural location and limited access to public transportation and housing.
To address this, their program relies on active recruitment from both organizations and creative solutions to help break down barriers preventing students from accessing the Living Classroom. Solutions that have worked for them have been asking local motels for discounted room rates for students who may require housing, or connecting students with both LTC staff and other students who would benefit from ride shares.
Approach to Learning
The Living Classroom students regularly interact with residents, staff and family members. LTC staff often serve as guest speakers, sharing real-world insights with students, while students bring their learning directly into the home, practicing skills throughout the facility rather than in isolated training rooms.
“Finishing my PSW program in a Living Classroom has been great for my career. In the past year, I’ve learned so much from the experienced PSWs I’ve worked alongside, and I’ve made close connections with the staff and residents. It was just an awesome experience to have, and then to walk right into a full-time position at the Manor…you can’t ask for anything more.”
Chad Blewett, Algoma Manor Living Classroom PSW graduate, August 2024
Celebrating Successes and Achievements
One of the most notable successes of the Living Classroom at Algoma Manor has been its retention rate. Many students choose to remain at the Manor after completing their training, drawn by the supportive environment and the deep connections they form with residents and staff. They found that PSWs trained within the Manor are more compassionate and connected to the residents, understanding their preferences and needs more deeply. This integration helps students develop a strong sense of ownership and pride in their work.
Jenny emphasized that having a consistent presence of well-trained PSWs who are familiar with the home’s culture and operations significantly enhances the overall care experience.
Evolving the Classroom and its Approaches
Reflecting on their journey, both Algoma Manor and Sault College have continuously evolved their Living Classroom. They started in a modest space—a chapel with folding tables—and have since evolved to a dedicated classroom. They learned that in-person learning was essential for students to remain connected to the real-world environment of LTC.
Jenny noted that it’s a slow process to get from A to B, but it’s necessary to learn what works and what doesn’t.
Jenny and Lori have learned to take the responsibility of screening student applications – both the educational institution and LTC home – and making sure those entering the program are the right fit for the home. They have learned that not everyone can pursue a career in health care. By investing the right amount of time into recruitment, students can understand the role they are entering and what it means to be a PSW.
They also stress the importance of strong partnerships and open communication. Continuous communication among all partners— educational institutions, LTC homes, or external agencies—is critical for addressing challenges and sustaining a successful Living Classroom.